3D printing has dramatically revolutionized 3D modeling in the engineering field as well as the medical field. Visualization of more explicit images from Computed tomography and IMR imaging has influenced the precision of diagnosis and hence the ultimate therapy decisions, this has significantly led to human ailment relief. 3D printing comprises two essential players: the 3D model and 3D printer. However, another vital link has always remained undermined while it significantly determines the quality of the final print, this is the 3D printing development slicer software which verily acts as the intermediate between the two critical aspects of 3D printing.

What Is 3D Printer Slicer Software?

A 3D printer slicer software is an open source software platform that allows for visualization of various 3D images. It is a tool that turns 3D models (STL) into G-code; a command/control point for 3D printing influencing the quality of the print produced. 3D printer slicer software developed over two decades ago has tremendously improved control on the types of prints produced today by researchers, physicians, developers and tech hobbyist. In 3D printing, the following are key steps:

Designing of the object using the 3D CAD software (3D modeling software). The structure scaled in 3D models to the desired specification.

Slicing; this involves the conversion of the 3D model drawn from the CAD software to a language understandable by the 3D printer. It is only after this that the desired 3D print become achievable.

3D Printing Guidelines

A 3D printer slicer software will create a guideline which the 3D printing software will religiously follow to ensure production of prints. The guidelines include a set of instructions concerning geometry that are essential in the interpretation of the 3D model by the 3D printer software, without which the 3D printer won’t understand the 3D models thus incorrect prints produced.

The 3D printer slicer software also instructs the printer on the speed at which printouts should be made. Therefore, it is essential to have the right slicer software depending on the nature of the task involved. When doing bulk 3D printing work, the slicer may be prompted to work at a higher speed. Printing speed may also vary at different parts of the same 3D model. The right choice of slicer software will depend on the person using it as well. Beginners will not require sophisticated slicers as their skills are not sufficient.

How to Achieve Optimal Prints

The appropriate 3D printer software will also influence the thickness levels of the 3D print adopted by the copy. Right slicer software will command the 3D printer software on the suitable thickness layer to take for the impression; this will give more detailed and clear 3D prints as compared to 3D printing CAD software which does not incorporate slicer software.

Finally, another critical feature that warrants the integration of 3D printer slicer software in 3D printing is the ability to create information about parts designs and make this available to the end-users. Modern slicer software power this feature through GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing). Overly, having the right slicer software will give you marvelous 3D prints.